The Waco Independent School District will be accepting bid responses for sign language interpreting services for spoken language to sign languages and sign language to spoken language. Specifications and requirements are listed below: Interpreter/agency services are contracted for a specific amount of time and the interpreter can and will be used where needed during that agreed upon time. This may be a change of placement from the original request, but is considered part of the same request and is not a separate request. If the original scheduling has been affected, the contract interpreter will contact the interpreter specialist to determine if the contract interpreter will be reassigned or released from contract hours. Sign language interpreters must possess excellent interpersonal skills, written and oral communication techniques, organizational skills and be able to work without close supervision. Must be able to listen to another person’s words, inflections and intent and simultaneously render them into the visual language of signs using the mode of communication preferred by the deaf consumer. Must also be able to comprehend the signs, inflections and intent of the deaf student and simultaneously articulate them. Must be able to adjust to a broad range of consumer preferences for interpretation and be able to function in a multicultural environment. Must be able to work irregular, flexible hours including nights and weekends. Must be able to facilitate communication through the use of sign language and spoken English within social and academic settings including direct overheard conversations, class instruction, lectures, tests, seminars and field trips. Must maintain confidentiality of all assignment-related information and adhere to industry code of ethics. Must accept assignments using discretion with regard to skill, setting and the individuals involved and functions in a manner appropriate to each interpreted situation, demonstrating professional appearance, conduct and promptness. Must prepare for demanding course material by reading course materials, learning frequently used vocabulary, and developing new signs as necessary. Must be able to team interpret as necessary to maintain the interpreter’s physical safety and/or ensure fluent interpretation with minimal errors.
